Marangu Route guide for Climbing Kilimanjaro

Marangu Route:Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro

Difficulty: Medium

Scenery: good

Traffic : High

Marangu route also known as the “Coca-Cola route” is by far the most popular route to the summit Africa’s rooftop Mt Kilimanjaro. The trek begins in the south-east area of the mountain at Marangu Gate. This could partly be as a result of the fact that the Marangu is the least expensive route, but more so, perhaps the fact that it is possible to do the Marangu route in 5 days, thereby getting to the summit one day earlier than on the Machame route. This is not always the best way due to a shorter acclimatisation period. The Marangu route does however offer you the option of spending an extra acclimatisation day on the mountain. This extends the route to a 6-day which greatly increasing your chances of success.

Marangu route accommodation is in mountain huts this cmakes the big main differences, compared to the other routes. It offers you the relative luxury of being able to sleep in huts along the entire route. Mineral water, soft drinks, chocolates and beers are also sold at all the camps on this route. All your equipment and supplies are portered and a cook prepares all your meals.

The Marangu route adventage is ideal for those hikers who are not confident in their ability to hike over steeper paths. It’s also attractive for those hikers who do not want to sleep in a tent. Marangu’s huts offer shelter and warmth against the weather so it is a great choice when climbing during the heavy rainy season. its also less steep making it less strangle for hikers who want to spend less on their climb, and do not mind being in crowds.

Total hiking distance: Approximately 96 kms (excludes acclimatisation hikes on day three)

For the 5-day route, simply exclude the additional acclimatisation day at Horombo hut – day 3 on the itinerary below.